On the surface, I Can’t Address It is a combination of shoegaze and grunge, and these elements are quite clear. They’re there, but there’s much more bubbling beneath.
Firstly, there’s the vocal style. Quintessentially English – and northern to be more precise – the spoken word vocal feels like a combination of English luminaries Jarvis Cocker, Anthony Szmierek, Alex Turner, Baxter Dury and Shaun Ryder.
Musically, the almost gothic-feeling shoegazey mood established in the first minute or so gives way – quite dramatically – to cutting fuzz and grungey textures that we know and love, before returning later on. It’s a bit of a yin-yang prospect, but it works really well – particularly when the styles combine as opposed to contrast. There are also little touches of another English songwriting national treasure – Noel Gallagher – in the lead guitar tone, in certain moments.
Towards the end of the song, the vocalist’s introspective mask has not just slipped but has been ripped off and dashed into the abyss. The vocal drips with desperation, despondency, and an endearing earnestness that we think is quite uncommon. It fosters an atmosphere and a sensation that we don’t encounter very often – feeling almost uncomfortable in its vulnerability. Keep your eyes on this quintet.
Written by Kinda Grizzly
